Low compression-force tpe weatherseals

ABSTRACT

A weatherseal has a stiffener and a foam profile. A first portion of the foam profile is connected to the stiffener. A second portion of the foam profile is joined to the first portion at a hinge. The first and second foam profile portions have inner surfaces facing substantially towards each other and outer surfaces facing substantially away from each other. The foam profile defines at least one continuous elongate lumen. A portion of the foam profile has a resin coating.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/116,105, filed, Feb. 13, 2015, the disclosureof which is hereby incorporated by reference herein it its entirety.

INTRODUCTION

Hinged swing entry doors that are designed for use in residentialhousing applications typically have an interface between the door anddoor frame that consists of a gap. The gaps are frequently filled withweatherseals (also called weatherstripping, weather strips, seals, etc.)of various designs that are often mounted to base structures that arepressed into “kerf slots” in the frame. The weatherseals are designed tomaintain an effective barrier against unwanted external environmentalconditions, especially the infiltration of air and water. Theweatherseals helps to separate the internal and external environments bypreventing the passage of noise, dust, heat, and light from one side ofthe door unit to the other through the gap. Certain weatherseals alsohave application in sliding or hinged windows and sliding doors. Forclarity, however, the technologies described herein will be made in thecontext of hinged doors.

Most residential houses have at least one swing entry door that has aframe, hinges, and a latching mechanism that holds the door in placeagainst a seal in order to isolate the indoor environment from theoutdoor environment by reducing air and water infiltration. The hinge,latch, and head represent one general sealing challenge to weathersealsdesigners while the sill poses another unique challenge. Frequently, thehinge, latch, and head seals require seventeen feet of weathersealswhile the sill requires three feet.

Foam weatherseals currently marketed under trade names such as Q-Lon(available from Schlegel of Rochester, N.Y.) and LoxSeal (available fromLoxcreen Company of West Columbia, S.C.) are variations of open cellurethane foam molded in polyethylene film. Q-Lon in particular displaysexcellent recovery, low operating force, and low cost. In addition, theopen cell structure allows the air to quickly evacuate from the foamwhen the weatherseal is compressed, reducing operating forces to minimaloperating performance while maintaining adequate sealing performance.EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer (M-class)) rubber foam door sealprofiles with a dense EPDM base mounting stem are also available, e.g.,from Lauren Manufacturing Company of New Philadelphia, Ohio. Variousweatherseals can include fin-shaped appendages, hollow bulb weathersealswith single or multiple openings, sponge rubber bulbs, urethane foammolded in polyethylene (PE) liner; coextruded foam bulbs, magnet/bulbseals, etc.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, is not intended todescribe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of theclaimed subject matter, and is not intended to be used as an aid indetermining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Many other noveladvantages, features, and relationships will become apparent as thisdescription proceeds. The figures and the description that follow moreparticularly exemplify illustrative embodiments.

In one aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: a hingedfoam profile having an elongate axis; a stiffener secured to the hingedfoam profile; and a resin coating substantially surrounding at least aportion of the hinged foam profile, wherein the hinged foam profiledefines a continuous elongate lumen extending longitudinally along theelongate axis. In an embodiment, the hinged foam profile has a first legsecured to the stiffener and a second leg integral with the first foamleg, and wherein at least one of the first leg and the second legdefines the continuous elongate lumen. In another embodiment, thestiffener includes a first stiffener leg secured to the first leg, andwherein the second leg includes a second leg axis. In yet anotherembodiment, the second leg axis is disposed at an acute angle to thefirst stiffener leg.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: astiffener; a foam profile having: a first profile portion connected tothe stiffener; and a second profile portion joined to the first profileportion at a hinge, wherein each of the first profile portion and thesecond foam profile portion has inner surfaces facing substantiallytowards each other and outer surfaces facing substantially away fromeach other, and wherein the foam profile defines at least one continuouselongate lumen; and a resin coating at least a portion of the foamprofile. In an embodiment, when a bending force is applied to the secondprofile portion, the inner surfaces are moved into contact with eachother. In another embodiment, when a compressive force is applied to thesecond profile portion, the at least one continuous elongate lumensubstantially collapses. In yet another embodiment, when the bendingforce is applied, the foam profile deforms proximate the hinge. In stillanother embodiment, the at least one continuous lumen is defined by thefirst profile portion, and wherein the first profile portion has asubstantially triangular profile cross section, and wherein the at leastone continuous lumen has a substantially triangular lumen cross sectionnested in the substantially triangular profile cross section. In anotherembodiment, a second continuous lumen is further defined by the secondprofile portion.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a method of creating a sealbetween a door and a frame having mounted thereon a hinged foamweatherseal defining a plurality of substantially continuous lumens, themethod including: moving a first leg of the foam weatherseal from afirst position to a second position; and compressing the foamweatherseal so as to reduce at least partially a cross-sectional area ofat least one of the plurality of substantially continuous lumens. In anembodiment, the first leg moves to the second position upon contact withthe door. In another embodiment, the moving operation and thecompressing operation are performed substantially simultaneously. In yetanother embodiment, the moving operation is performed prior to thecompressing operation. In still another embodiment, the method includesfurther compressing the foam weatherseal so as to reduce completelycross-sectional areas of all of the plurality of substantiallycontinuous lumens. In another embodiment, when in the second position,facing surfaces of the foam weatherseal are in contact.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: ahinged foamed TPE profile having a nominal height of about 0.650″,wherein the weatherseal includes a compression load deflection of lessthan about 1.25, when compressed to a thickness of about ⅜″ at a rate ofabout 1″/minute. In an embodiment, the foamed TPE profile defines aplurality of substantially continuous elongate lumens. In anotherembodiment, a substantially rigid base structure is connected to a firstleg of the foamed TPE profile. In yet another embodiment, a resincoating at least a portion of the foamed TPE profile.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: ahinged foam profile including: a first leg; a second leg extending fromthe first leg at an acute angle away from the first leg; and a hingejoining the first leg and the second leg, wherein the hinge isconfigured to buckle when the second leg is acted upon by a force, priorto substantial compression of the hinged foam profile, and wherein atleast one of the first leg, the second leg, and the hinge define asubstantially continuous elongate lumen. In an embodiment, thesubstantially continuous elongate lumen is configured to deform duringbuckling of the hinge. In another embodiment, the substantiallycontinuous elongate lumen is defined by the first leg. In yet anotherembodiment, the first leg has a substantially triangular cross sectionand wherein the substantially continuous elongate lumen has asubstantially triangular cross section nested in the first leg.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: astiffener; and a hinged foam profile having an exterior surface at leastpartially coated with a resin, the hinged foam profile having: a firstportion having a first portion cross sectional area, wherein the firstportion is connected to the stiffener and defines a first lumen having afirst lumen cross sectional area similar to and nested within the firstportion cross sectional area; and a second portion connected to thefirst portion and having a second portion cross sectional area, whereinthe second portion defines a second lumen having a second lumen crosssectional area similar to and nested within the second portion crosssectional area. In an embodiment, the hinged foam profile is configuredto bend at a hinge location between the first portion and the secondportion. In another embodiment, bending of the hinge location reduces aseparation distance between a surface of the first portion and a surfaceof the second portion. In yet another embodiment, the first lumen isconfigured to collapse upon application of a force to at least one ofthe first portion and the second portion. In still another embodiment,the bending and the collapsing occur substantially simultaneously. In anembodiment, the first lumen is substantially triangular.

In another embodiment of the above aspect, a first portion cross sectionand a first lumen cross section are defined by a substantiallytriangular-shape. In another embodiment, a second portion cross sectionand a second lumen cross section are both defined by a partially ovalshape. In yet another embodiment, when the second portion is acted uponby an external force, the hinged foam profile bends and the first lumenat least partially deforms. In still another embodiment, when the secondportion is acted upon by the external force, a surface of the secondportion contacts a surface of the first portion.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: astiffener; and a hinged profile connected to the stiffener and having afirst leg and a second leg, wherein the second leg defines asubstantially continuous lumen therein. In an embodiment, the hingedprofile further includes a hinge connecting the first leg to the secondleg, wherein when the second leg is acted upon by a compressive force,the hinged profile is configured to buckle proximate the hinge prior todeformation of the substantially continuous lumen. In anotherembodiment, when acted upon by the compressive force, facing surfaces ofthe hinged profile are configured to contact prior to deformation of thesubstantially continuous lumen of the second leg. In yet anotherembodiment, the first leg defines a substantially continuous lumen,wherein the hinged profile is configured to buckle proximate the hingeand the substantially continuous lumen of the first leg.

In another aspect, the technology relates to a weatherseal having: ahinged foam profile having: a first portion; a second portion; and ahinged portion connecting the first portion and the second portion,wherein at least one of the first portion, the second portion, and thehinged portion defines a substantially continuous lumen. In anembodiment, the hinged portion is configured to bend upon application ofa force to at least one of the first portion and the second portion. Inanother embodiment, bending of the hinged portion reduces a separationdistance between a surface of the first portion and a surface of thesecond portion. In yet another embodiment, the substantially continuouslumen is configured to collapse upon application of a force to at leastone of the first portion and the second portion. In still anotherembodiment, the bending and the collapsing occur substantiallysimultaneously.

In another embodiment of the above aspect, the substantially continuouslumen is substantially oblong. In an embodiment, the substantiallycontinuous lumen is substantially triangular.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1D depict examples of hinged profiles.

FIGS. 2A-2D depict examples of weatherseals in uncompressed andcompressed states.

FIGS. 3A-3F depict examples of weatherseals in uncompressed andcompressed states.

FIGS. 4A-4E depict examples of weatherseals.

FIGS. 5A-5D depict examples of weatherseals in uncompressed andcompressed states.

FIGS. 6A-6D depict examples of weatherseals in uncompressed andcompressed states.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict an example of a weatherseal in uncompressed andcompressed states.

FIGS. 8A-20 depict examples of weatherseals incorporating one or more ofthe technologies described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Door Sealing Technology, Generally

Residential door weatherseals are most often compressed to about ⅜″ andare expected to seal effectively through the full compression range fromthe compressed thickness of about 5/16″ to about ½″ with the weathersealextending to a full nominal thickness of about 0.650″. Many times, adoor panel or frame has uneven surfaces and requires a seal that iscompliant and uniform through the compression range to ensure a properseal and closing force under all operating conditions. A typicalresidential door has about 17 feet of weatherseal in the gap at the sidejambs and at the head. When closed, approximately 40% of the air thatresides in a typical weatherseal is evacuated through the ends of theweatherseals in the amount of time it takes to close the door the finaltwo or three inches, which can be as little as 0.05 seconds. Someweatherseals have more open cell structures than others. Weathersealswith generally open cell structures typically allow air to evacuatefreely and rapidly through the ends of the weather strip, providinglittle or no resistance to the door's compressive force. Weathersealswith more closed cell structures resist, restrict, or even prevent rapidair movement through the cell matrix, causing instantaneous resistanceto the door's compressive force upon closing. Some closed cellstructures such as those found in some EPDM foams prevent all air fromexiting through the cell walls, creating a short term deformation in theweatherseals shape until the internal and external gasses have attainedpressure equilibrium. This occurs in materials that are semi-permeableto atmospheric gasses such as nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide.

It is desirable that a weatherseals have good performance in thefollowing areas and be properly certified by AAMA, NWWDA, NFRC, andother voluntary accreditation bodies:

(A) Recovery/Resistance to Compression Set: The weatherseal shouldrecover to a condition near its original uncompressed state after beingcompressed for a period of time.

(B) Weatherable/UV Resistant: The weatherseal should maintaindimensional and performance attributes after exposure to weather and UVlight conditions.

(C) Water Absorption/Wicking: In cold climates, water absorption intothe cell structure can cause problems when the water freezes andexpands. The seal should allow air to pass freely through the sealmatrix (not across the sealing surface), but should not allow water topenetrate the seal matrix for the risk of freezing.

(D) Compression Force: A weatherseal should provide the proper range ofoperating force, or CLD (Compression Load Deflection) while tolerating arange of forces from “slamming” of a door to the low operating force ofa child or elderly person (so as to meet, e.g., ADA compliance). Too lowa CLD will fail to prevent air and water penetration, while too high aCLD might prevent proper closing.

Types of Existing Weatherseals

Various materials may be used to manufacture weatherseals. These includethose materials described above (e.g., open cell urethane foam molded inpolyethylene film, EPDM), as well as thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) andthermoplastic vulcanisate (TPV).

Existing TPE Weatherseals

TPE/TPV weatherseal designs frequently include a solid foam core ofthermoplastic elastomer foam surrounded by a generally impervious outerresin coating or skin material in order to provide protection from UVdegradation and from physical damage. Such weatherseals are describedfor example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,607,629; 5,393,796, and 5,192,586, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in theirentireties. Recent designs utilize a variety of surface optionsincluding covering with polyethylene film, providing bare foam areas(e.g., without a resin coating or skin material), applying low frictioncoatings, leaving large surface areas with no coating to reduce forceand increase flexibility, and incorporating silicone and other additivesto provide surface lubrication and protection. Certain of these designsare described in the patents identified above, as well as U.S. Pat. No.7,718,251, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety. The technology described herein can benefit from all ofthe aforementioned surface treatments in addition to yet-to-be developedmethods and materials in order to further enhance the product'sperformance characteristics. Such TPE foam weatherseals are availableunder the brand name Foam-Tite® by Amesbury Group, Inc., of Amesbury,Mass.

Existing TPE foam is generally considered a substantially closed-cellfoam cell structure due to its resistance to water penetration.Microscopic examination reveals that many of the cells actually havecell walls that opened to adjacent cells to various degrees. During cellformation, these small openings allow the blowing agent, gaseous water(steam), to escape the cell structure and upon cooling, be replaced withair until equilibrium is reached between the internal and externalpressures. Due to the substantially closed-cell foam cell structure, TPEfoam weatherseals provide excellent resistance to water infiltration,which makes them very desirable for use in exterior door weatherseals.

However, due to the closed-cell foam cell structure, TPE foamweatherseals offer higher than desirable CLD, which ultimately restrictstheir use in such applications. As solid TPE foam is compressed, airthat is contained within the cells is forced through a network ofmicroscopic interconnections between the cells in order for the foam totake on its compressed shape. These interconnections have been seen tooccupy from less than about 10% to greater than about 30% of the cellwall surface, depending on such foam-forming factors as polymer meltviscosity, melt temperature, melt strength, nucleating additives, andother material and operating factors and conditions. In the case wherebythe foam has been coated on the surface, the only evacuation route forthe ambient air that fills the cells is via the ends of the profile. Insome applications, such as windows, where operating cycles arerelatively slow, the air that is internally captive within the cellstructure has adequate time to evacuate the foam structure through theends of the weatherstrip. In swing door applications, however, there isgenerally inadequate time to allow the air to properly evacuate the cellstructure through the ends of the weatherseals as the door is closed,especially when it is “slammed” shut. This phenomenon generates a higherthan acceptable operating force. In a truly closed cell structurewherein the gas that fills each cell remains completely captive,compression of the foam does not evacuate the gas and the compressionrises significantly as a function of the internal gas pressure.

New TPE Weatherseals Utilizing Lumens, Generally

In order for TPE foam weatherseals to be accepted in the marketplace,they should have performance and costs similar to more common urethaneseals, such as those described above. In that regard, a TPE foamweatherseal should look like a urethane weatherseal when in anuncompressed configuration. This gives the perception to consumers thatthe weatherseal will be able to bridge gaps between the door and theframe. Additionally, a weatherseal that returns to its original shapeprovides the impression of robustness that the weatherseal will not failafter repeated compressions. Similar performance is also desirable. TheTPE foam weatherseal should resist abrasion, which can occur, e.g., iffurniture is dragged along the weatherseal (during moving). The CLD ofthe weatherseal should be low enough that the door may be properlyclosed, without having to apply additional force thereto. If the CLD istoo high, the door may not close properly, which can be particularlydifficult for users with disabilities. However, the weatherseal shouldcollapse with little applied force, since the weatherseal needs toretain sufficient resiliency across its length so as to bridge any gapsbetween the door and the frame. Additionally, to the extent water isdrawn into the weatherstrip, either due to material used orconfiguration, free-flowing drainage of the water is desirable.

Recent developments in thermoplastic elastomer foaming technology haveallowed the design and development of new profile shapes,configurations, and features that allow TPE foam to match or exceed theperformance of urethane foam weatherseals. For example, the technologiesas described herein include, e.g., weatherseals that incorporate one ormore hollow channels or lumens in order to provide easier closing force.Other unique performance features and characteristics are also describedherein.

In a door seal weatherseals with one or more continuous hollow tubularvoids or lumens that extend the full length of the weatherstrip, theatmospheric air that is contained within the cell structure in itsrelaxed state can be voided from the weatherseals very rapidly uponcompression, allowing the door to close with minimal force through thelast inch or so of its closing distance. The cross sectional design ofdoor weather seals is most effective when designed as a thin, angular,hinged profile, due to the requirement of compressing the seal over abroad dimensional range with little change in compression force. Thelumen technologies described herein may also be utilized in round,triangular, rectangular, or square profiles. Weather seals withapproximately equal thickness and width generally have a continuouslyincreasing resistance to force when compressed while a hingedweatherseals has a more flattened resistance for force until an upperleaf of the profile makes contact with a lower leaf of the profile.

The addition of one or more of hollow channels or lumens has beenincorporated into a variety of window and door seal foam profiles inorder to reduce the closing force. The lumen is most commonly found in aprofile both for design convenience and for the shape's universalacceptance and performance. The addition of a lumen can reduce theclosing force by about 30% to about 50%, depending on the foam wallthickness and foam density. Further reductions can be achieved by shapedesign modifications. For example, a “loaf of bread” shape causes thefoam walls to collapse inward upon compression, further reducing theforce required to compress the profile.

The addition of multiple hollow channels in the foam profile providesthe weatherseal designer a degree of freedom heretofore unachieved. Itallows specific designs to have hinge points, secondary compressionzones that compress with a second compression force after the primarycompression has taken place (e.g., shock absorbers), features thatenhance the compression set resistance, create product volume at areduced cost, and features that allow the air to quickly evacuate thecell structure. The last item results from reinforcing walls that rangefrom two to ten cells thick that are allowed to vent into multiplelongitudinal chambers as the coated foam structure is compressed.

In a door seal application wherein a thin, hinged design is needed forthe purpose of creating a constant closing force over a large sealingdistance, one single tubular lumen at the hinge point may not beadequate to evacuate sufficient air that is captive in the cellstructure to maintain a uniform compression load. In this case, multiplehollow lumens may be incorporated to evacuate more air from the cellstructure. The technologies described herein utilize one to five hollowtubular lumens formed in a foam matrix in a specific shapeconfiguration, extending the size and sealing capability without addingto the operating force. The multi-lumen configuration interacts with thehinge portion of a leaf-type door seal weatherseals to allow air tofreely evacuate from the cell structure in a very rapid fashion uponrapid compression, allowing low operating force and excellent sealingperformance through a range of gap sizes. This combination allows forchildren and individuals with disabilities to operate doors withirregularities and improper installation. It also provides adequatecushioning effect to allow the door to be slammed closed withoutsignificant structural damage.

Shapes

The weatherseals described herein may be formed in a number of generalshapes, the features of which can be described, e.g., in relation to theframe of the door. FIGS. 1A-1D depict exemplary shapes of hingedprofiles that can be manufactured in accordance with the teachingsherein. FIG. 1A, for example, depicts a weatherseal 100 a having ahinged profile 101 a characterized generally by a U-shape, which isdefined by a profile curve 102 a. The profile curve 102 a is determinedby drawing a plurality of lines L substantially orthogonal to the jambface JF. The profile curve 102 a connects the midpoint M of each line L.Therefore, as depicted in FIG. 1A, this profile 101 a is substantiallyU-shaped. The U-shaped hinged profile 101 a has an upper leaf 104 a, ahinge 106 a, and a continuous outer surface 108 a. The operation andlocation of these elements are described more specifically below. Thelower leaf 110 a is the portion of the profile 101 a connected to afirst arm 112 a′ of a stiffener 112 a. The stiffener 112 a is theportion of the weatherseal 100 a inserted into the kerf 114 of thedoorframe 116 a. In the uncompressed position, the upper leaf 104 a isdisposed at an acute angle ϕ to both the lower leaf 110 a and the firstarm 112 a′ of the stiffener 112 a.

FIG. 1B depicts a weatherseal 100 b having a hinged profile 101 bcharacterized generally by a V-shape, which is substantially defined bya sharp profile curve 102 b, which is again determined as describedabove. The V-shaped hinged profile 100 b has an upper leaf 104 b, ahinge 106 b, a continuous outer surface 108 b. A lower leaf 110 b tendsto have a significantly different shape than the upper leaf 104 b.Regardless, the lower leaf 110 b is connected to a base structure orstiffener 112 b, which is inserted into the kerf 114 b of the doorframe116 b. In the uncompressed position, the upper leaf 104 b is disposed atan acute angle ϕ to both the lower leaf 110 b and the first arm 112 b′of the stiffener 112 b.

FIG. 1C depicts a weatherseal 100 c having a hinged profile 101 ccharacterized generally by an S-shaped profile curve 102 c, which isagain determined as described above. The S-shaped hinged profile 100 chas an upper leaf 104 c, a hinge 106 c, a continuous outer surface 108c. A lower leaf 110 c is connected to a base structure or stiffener 112c, which is inserted into the kerf 114 c of the doorframe 116 c. In theuncompressed position, the upper leaf 104 c is disposed at an acuteangle ϕ to both the lower leaf 110 c and the first arm 112 c′ of thestiffener 112 c.

FIG. 1D depicts a weatherseal 100 d having a hinged profile 101 dcharacterized generally by a profile curve 102 d, which is againdetermined as described above. The profile curve 102 d, in this case,includes a central linear section 103 d due to the elongate neck 105 dthat is bounded by two hinges 106 d. The hinged profile 100 d includesan upper leaf 104 d and a continuous outer surface 108 d. A lower leaf110 d is connected to a base structure or stiffener 112 d, which isinserted into the kerf 114 d of the doorframe 116 d. In the uncompressedposition, the upper leaf 104 d is disposed at an acute angle ϕ to boththe lower leaf 110 d and the first arm 112 d′ of the stiffener 112 d.

FIGS. 2A-2D depicts two examples of weatherseals 200 a, 200 b inuncompressed and compressed states and are used to describe, generally,stiffeners 202 a, 202 b, and lower leaves 204 a, 204 b of the profiles206 a, 206 b. In FIGS. 2A-2B, the lower leaf 204 a is connected to thestiffener 202 a, which is inserted into the kerf 208 a of the jamb 210a. The stiffener 204 a may include one or more teeth 212 a projectingtherefrom that engage with an inner surface of the kerf 208 a. The lowerleaf 204 a is connected to the stiffener 202 a along substantially allof the width W thereof (as well as along a length thereof, extendingtransverse to the width W). The lower leaf 204 a may be joined to thestiffener 202 a with an adhesive or other connection element, or may beco-extruded therewith by joining the lower leaf 204 a and the stiffener202 a along substantially the entire width W, a robust connection isformed. The lower leaf 204 a terminates at the hinge H and, as such,defines two lumens 214 a, 216 a therein. The hinge H is the location ofthe profile 206 a along which bending or folding takes place when theprofile 206 a is acted upon by an external force. As can be seen, lumen214 a, which is located distal from the hinge H maintains asubstantially consistent outer profile as the profile 206 a compressesto the condition depicted in FIG. 2B. This is because less deformationoccurs to the portions of the lower leaf 204 a distal from the hinge H.FIG. 2B corresponds to the door 222 a being in a closed position and, incertain examples, inner surfaces 218 a, 220 a are not in contact in thisposition. Should inner surfaces 218 a, 220 a contact, however (e.g., ifthe door is out of plumb or the seal 200 a is otherwise overcompressed),lumen 214 a may collapse. Lumen 216 a deforms significantly between thepositions depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B due to the proximity thereof tohinge H. As such, air is evacuated from the lumen 216 a during the doorclosing operation, resulting in a reduced CLD of the weatherseal 200 a.As described above, if the inner surfaces 218 a, 220 a contact, lumen216 a may completely collapse, depending on the degree of compression ofthe profile 206 a.

In FIGS. 2C-2D, the lower leaf 204 b is connected to the stiffener 202b, which is inserted into the kerf 208 b of the jamb 210 b. Certainelements depicted in FIGS. 2C-2D are described above with regard toFIGS. 2A-2B and are therefore not necessarily described further. Thelower leaf 204 b is connected to the stiffener 202 b along only aportion of the width W thereof. In examples, the length of connectionmay be about two-thirds or one-half of the total width W. Other lengthsof connection are contemplated. By joining the lower leaf 204 b to onlya portion of the width W, an overcompression volume V is formed (and isdepicted generally as a dashed circle in FIG. 2D). The overcompressionvolume V provides a volume into which an upper leaf 222 b of the profile206 b may be pushed if the door 222 b is overcompressed. Since the upperleaf 222 b may be moved into this overcompression volume V withoutsignificant contact with the lower leaf 204 b, the CLD of the profile206 b remains low. The lower leaf 204 b terminates at the hinge H anddefines a single lumen 214 b. The lumen 214 b is nested within the lowerleaf 204 b, in that the lumen 214 b is defined by walls that aredisposed substantially equal distances d from the outer bounds of thelower leaf 204 b. This can provide for predictable collapsing of thelumen 214 b as the profile 206 b is compressed. In contrast, a lumenthat is substantially round, for example, would have walls that are notnecessarily disposed substantially equal distances from the outer boundsof the lower leaf. As such, collapsing of such a lumen would be lesspredictable. The lumen 214 b folds predictably inwards (at a bulge B) asthe profile 206 b folds at the hinge H. FIG. 2D corresponds to the door222 b being in a closed position and, in certain examples, innersurfaces 218 b, 220 b are not in contact in this position. Should theseal 200 b be overcompressed, the upper leaf 222 b will enterovercompression volume V. Even further overcompression would cause lumen214 b to collapse further, especially if the inner surfaces 218 b, 220 bcome into contact.

FIGS. 3A-3F depicts three examples of weatherseals 300 a, 300 b, 300 cin uncompressed and compressed states and are used to describe,generally, function of hinges 302 a, 302 b, 302 c. In FIGS. 3A-3B, thehinge 302 a separates an upper leaf U and a lower leaf L. The hinge 302a may be defined as a line separating the upper leaf U and the lowerleaf L, along which the profile 304 a folds or bends when acted upon byan external force (e.g., when compressed between a door 306 a and aframe 308 a. In the case of the weatherseal 300 a of FIGS. 3A and 3B,the hinge 302 a is solid, in that it is not crossed by a lumen, as thatelement is defined elsewhere herein. Solid hinges 302 a generallydisplay higher CLDs than hollow hinges (described below), but alsodisplay greater recovery than hollow hinges, since more material ispresent to force the profile 304 a to return to the uncompressedposition. Additionally, solid hinges 302 a appear to allow for moreuniform deformation of the profile 304 a above and below the hinge 302a.

In FIGS. 3C-3D, the hinge 302 b separates an upper leaf U and a lowerleaf L. The hinge 302 b may be a line separating the upper leaf U andthe lower leaf L, along which the profile 304 b folds or bends whenacted upon by an external force (e.g., when compressed between a door306 b and a frame 308 b). In the case of the weatherseal of FIGS. 3C and3D, the hinge 302 b is hollow, in that it is crossed by a lumen 314 b,as that element is defined elsewhere herein. Hollow hinges 302 b reducethe CLD, since there is less material to be folded at the hinge 302 b.When acted upon by an external force, the inner portion of profilematerial at the hinge 302 b (that is, the portion proximate the innersurfaces 310 b, 312 b) is under compression C. The outer portion(disposed on the opposite side of the lumen 314 b from the innerportion) is under tension T. As such, forces generated by the materialopposite these compression C and tension T forces bias the profile 304 btowards the uncompressed position of FIG. 3C.

In FIGS. 3E-3F, two hinges 302 c, 302 c′ separates an upper leaf U and alower leaf L. These hinges 302 c, 302 c′ are separated by a neck 314 cthat may allow the profile to obtain a longer reach R from the doorframe 308 c. More specifically, the upper hinge 302 c separates theupper leaf U from the neck 314 c, while the lower hinge 302 c′ separatesfrom neck 314 c from the lower leaf L. Each leaf 302 c, 302 c′ folds orbends when acted upon by an external force (e.g., when compressedbetween a door 306 c and a frame 308 c). Typically, the upper hinge 302c folds first, although complete folding of the upper hinge 302 c doesnot necessarily precede entirely folding of the lower hinge 302 c′.Otherwise, folding of the two hinges 302 c, 302 c′ is substantiallysimilar to the folding of a single solid hinge, such as depictedpreviously. Additionally, since the neck 314 c has an axis A disposedsubstantially orthogonal to the frame 308 c, the neck 314 c helpsincrease the CLD as the profile 304 c is forced into the compressedposition of FIG. 3F (as well as an overcompressed position, if the door306 c is moved closer to the jamb 308 c for any number of reasons).

FIGS. 4A-4E depict three examples of weatherseals 400 a, 400 b, 400 cand are used to describe, generally, function of upper leaves 402 a, 402b, 402 c. In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the upper leaf 402 a includes two lumens404 a, 404 a′ separated by a rib 406 a, which is manufactured from theprofile 408 a material. The upper leaf 402 a is the first portion of theprofile 408 a that contacts the door 410 a during closing operations. Itis this contact that folds or bend the profile 408 a proximate the hingeH. Use of two lumens 404 a, 404 a′ results in a higher CLD whencompressed, due to the presence of the rib 406 a therebetween. This rib406 a is disposed substantially orthogonal to the jamb 412 a as theprofile 408 a is compressed, as in FIG. 4B. If the profile 408 a isovercompressed, this orthogonal orientation of the rib 406 a resistsfurther compression and deformation, thus resulting in a higher CLD.

In FIGS. 4C and 4D, the weatherseal 400 b has an upper leaf 402 b thatincludes a lumen 404 b. The upper leaf 402 b is in the form of anoutward-facing lobe (in that is faces away from the jamb 412 b, towardsthe door 410 b). This allows the upper leaf 402 b to fold so as to fillthe space S between the door 410 b and the frame 412 b. Additionally,the presence of the lumen 404 b allows the upper leaf 402 b to furtherconform to this space S. Should the upper leaf 402 b not be pinched inthe space S, however, the single lumen 404 b otherwise reduces the CLDof the profile 408 b.

Larger lumens can even further reduce the CLD. Such a lumen 404 c isdepicted in FIG. 4E. In this example, the upper leaf 402 c includes alarge lumen 404 c that is substantially nested in the upper leaf 402 c.A lumen nested within a leaf may, in one example, be defined as a lumenthat is disposed within the leaf, so as to be spaced on all sides by asubstantially equal distance d from the outer surface of the leaf. Upperleaves having enlarged nested lumens may more easily conform toirregular surfaces between a door and a door frame. Additionally, due tothe large lumen, the CLD of the profile may be significantly reduced.

FIGS. 5A-5D depict two examples of weatherseals 500 a, 500 b and areused to describe, generally, function of ribs 502 a, 504 a, and 502 b.In FIGS. 5A and 5B, upper rib 502 a is disposed at an angle α to theface of the door 506 a when the door 506 a is in the closed position ofFIG. 5B. A rib 502 a having a smaller angle α to the door 506 a providesless cushion to absorb impact, while a rib 502 a having a larger angle αto the door 506 a provides more cushion. Ribs 502 a disposed generallyorthogonal to the door 506 a provide the greatest compression resistanceand higher CLD. The rib 502 a deforms as the profile 508 a compresses.This places an inner portion 510 a of an upper leaf 512 a in compressionC, while an upper portion 514 a of the inner leaf 512 a is in tension T.The lower rib 504 a is disposed generally orthogonal to the jamb 516 aand acts as a reinforcing structure to resist deformation. In FIGS. 5Cand 5D, upper rib 502 b is disposed at an angle α that is substantiallyorthogonal to the face of the door 506 b when the door 506 b is in theclosed position of FIG. 5B. Such a rib 502 b disposed generallyorthogonal to the door 506 b provides the greatest compressionresistance and higher CLD. In general, the ribs 502 a, 502 b, 504 a suchas those depicted herein help maintain the shape of the profiles 508 a,508 b. The further cushioning and impact absorption function of the ribs502 a, 502 b, 504 a occur when the profiles 508 a, 508 b areovercompressed (e.g., compressed past the closed positions of FIGS. 5Band 5D). As the inner facing surfaces 518 a, 518 b contact, the ribs 502a, 502 b, 504 a provide resistance to deformation.

FIGS. 6A-6D depict two examples of weatherseals 600 a, 600 b and areused to describe, generally, function of the outer resin coating or skin602 a, 602 b. The skin 602 a, 602 b helps resist structural abuse andacts as a bumper against deformation without significantly increasingCLD. Profiles entirely lacking skin may be utilized, but abrasionresistance, water resistance, and UV resistance may be reduced, as theseare primarily functions of the skin. FIGS. 6A and 6B depict a profile604 a having a thick skin portion 606 a. The thick skin portion 606 alocated as depicted (e.g., proximate an outer curvature of the profile604 a) provides abrasion resistance against objects that may drag alongthe profile 604 a, such as furniture and so on. The profile 604 a alsoincludes an unskinned portion 608 a disposed on an inner curvature ofthe profile 604 a. The unskinned portion 608 a allows for increasedprofile 604 a compression, since no skin is present to resist. Theunskinned portion 608 a is substantially aligned with a lumen 610 a,which decreases inward compression I of the lumen 610 a. Verticalcompression V is increased, however, due to the unskinned portion 608 a.FIGS. 6C and 6D depict a weatherseal 600 b having skin 602 b thatincludes a plurality of projections or fins 612 a, 614 b. Theprojections 612 a, 614 b can be formed integrally with or secured to theskin 602 b and are utilized to seal gaps between surfaces, withoutincreasing the overall size of the profile 604 b.

The features and components described above in FIGS. 1A-6D can beincorporated into hinged weatherseals so as to achieve desiredperformance characteristics. In certain examples, lumens may be disposedin one or more of the upper leaf, the lower leaf, or the hinge,depending on the performance required or desired for a particularapplication. Multiple lumens in a single leaf are also contemplated andthe ribs disposed therebetween can increase CLD (as compared to a leafutilizing a single large lumen). The lumens may be defined by any shape,as required or desired for a particular application. Lumen shapes suchas triangular, oval, ovid, bean, tear, etc., may be utilized. Lumenshapes may also be defined by their similarity to letters, such as U, C,D, O, and so on. As described above, particular shapes (e.g.,triangular) may display particularly desirable performance, especiallywhen in a configuration where the lumen is nested in a similarly shapedleaf.

The hinged weatherseals described herein may be utilized in standardentry doors, and as such, may be manufactured to particular sizes anddimensions widely accepted in the industry. FIGS. 7A and 7B depictexemplary dimensions of a weatherseal 700 for illustrative purposes.Individual lengths of weatherseals 700 may be manufactured in elongatelengths, e.g., cut from a single continuous seal. Regardless, eachweatherseal defines an elongate axis that extends along a lengththereof. As such, lumens defined by the weatherseal profile andsimilarly elongate along the weatherseal axis. One key feature of theweatherseal 700 is the uncompressed profile height P, which is thedistance between a maximum extent of the upper leaf U and the door jambJ. Weatherseals such as those described herein can be manufactured withnominal profile heights P of about two-thirds of an inch to about oneinch. More specific examples include heights of about 0.650″, about0.730″, about 0.750″, about 0.825″, and about 0.928″. In such examples,the weatherseals may collapse to a height of about half of theiruncompressed profile height P, without being subject to overcompression.It is desirable, however, that weatherseals manufactured in accordancewith the disclosures herein be completely functional in a range of aboutone-eighth inch to about one-half inch. In examples, the cross-sectionalarea of the inner lumens L may decrease to between about 25% to about50% of their original area when the weatherseal is in the closedposition of FIG. 7B. A collapse of about 30% has also been discovered tobe acceptable. Such collapsing allows air to be sufficiently evacuatedfrom the lumens, so as to decrease CLD. Upon compression to anovercompressed state (e.g., beyond the compressed state of FIG. 7B), thelumens L may completely collapse, depending on the degree ofcompression.

Certain ratios of dimensions have been determined to be particularlydesirable, as they have a positive effect on performance of theweatherseal 700. For example, a hinge distance D from the jamb J to thehinge H may be about 30% to about 50% of the total profile height P.Hinge distances D in this range have been discovered to result in fairlypredictable bending or folding of the hinge H, while ensuring that theouter curvature C remains substantially even with a face of the jamb J(depicted by the dotted line in FIG. 7B) when in the compressed state.Additionally, profile width W should be sized to reduce the possibilityof binding (where the upper leaf U is pinched between the door D and theadjacent frame F). This prevents the outer curvature C from beingdamaged or detracting from the aesthetics of the door panel DP. In otherexamples, the hinge distance D may be about 40% of the total profileheight P. In a weatherseal having a profile height P of about 0.650″,this would result in a hinge distance D of about 0.260″. Ratios of ahinge thickness T to the profile height P are also relevant, especiallyin solid hinges, to allow for sufficient recovery. For example, a hingethickness T of less than about 7% of the profile height H does notrecover well, while a hinge thickness T of greater than about 23%displays too much rigidity and resists bending. A hinge thickness T ofabout 15% of the profile height has been determined to be desirable incertain examples. Wall thickness t (that is, the distance between alumen L and an outer surface of the profile, as well as the distancebetween adjacent lumens L) also affects CLD. Depending on the materialsused and the manufacturing processes, the wall thickness t may be about3% of the total profile height P. Wall thickness t as thin as 0.020″ arecontemplated and have displayed desirable results.

The weatherseals described herein may be manufactured in accordance withprocesses now known or developed in the future. Profiles may be cut fromextruded, cooled pieces of foam material utilizing laser cuttingprocesses, hot wire cutting processes, or other processes. Theweatherseals may be cut from a rotary blade and formed into a finalshape. For example, the weatherseal may be slit open, machined with ahigh speed cutter to form the lumen, coated to seal the exposed ends,then mounted to a substrate. Flexible adhesive systems can be used toassemble segments in a clamshell configuration by passing two elongatedmachined strips of foam over an adhesive lick roll and joining thestrips together, thus forming the lumens. Other methods of manufactureinclude laminating multiple elongates subcomponent foam rod-shapedextrusions into a shape with a set of guides and rollers using acombination of heat and coating materials. Small foam beads or assembledtubes with cellular walls may be fused together in a continuous shape.The weatherstrip or portions thereof may be 3D printed with a modifiedStratasys or similar printer. Lumens formed within the profiles may becut by similar technologies, or may be machined or otherwise formed inthe profiles utilizing, e.g., elongate drilling bits or other machiningtools.

Desirable manufacturing processes also include extrusion andco-extrusion processes, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,607,629; 5,393,796, and 5,192,586, the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference herein in their entireties. U.S. Pat. No.7,718,251 also describes fabric-clad foam weatherseals, and suchtechnologies may also be incorporated into the hinged, hollow profiletechnologies described herein. Electrical discharge machining (EDM)methods and design innovations have led to production of extrusion diesand back plates that may be used to produce complex profiles having oneor more lumens, varied skin thicknesses, and other features. Very thindie openings with very delicate mandrel spider leg supports allow forunique foam shape control for very thin outer and inner reinforcingwalls. Thin die openings also allow the foam to “knit” back together,creating a seamless finished product. The thin dies also allow a shapeto maintain an inflated structure with an inner network of innerreinforcing walls or ribs, thus providing a process to design andproduce, e.g., very large, complex multi-hollow foam profiles.Back-plates can be used that approximate the shape of the profile andguide the melt in a predetermined manner toward specific areas of thefront plate.

The dies may be used to produce profiles having walls only three cellsthick in certain locations. TPE foam cells vary from 0.010″-0.050″diameter, depending on the polymer composition and the operatingparameters. The cells are somewhat interactive with adjacent cells viarandom openings in their walls, allowing a restricted flow of airthrough the cell matrix. This allows air to be evacuated upon foamcompression and to be returned to the cell matrix upon de-compression.The dies provide good shape control since the cells expand laterally,with minimal distortion, and allow for precise flexibility in areasdesigned to be hinges. Thin internal walls may need smaller cellstructure with lower porosity in order to limit internal off-gassingwhile achieving low densities. Internal off-gassing inflates anddistends lumens and can be controlled during the cooling process.Further development and control of foam cell size and density throughprocess controls, base material changes, and additives may control rateof off-gassing during cell formation.

Materials utilized in the manufacture of the described weatherseals areidentified in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,607,629; 5,393,796; and 5,192,586, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir entireties. Materials also include SANTOPRENE®, manufactured bythe ExxonMobil Corporation; Sarlink manufactured by Teknor Apex Company;and Elastron Thermoplastic Elastomers, manufactured by Elastron KimyaA.S. Thermoset components may be applied during manufacture to improvecompression set resistance. Lumens may also be formed in EPDM orurethane profiles.

A number of example weatherseals incorporating certain technologiesdescribed herein, are depicted below. In general, all of the followingexamples include a profile, a stiffener, an outer skin or resin coating,upper and lower leaves integral with each other (e.g., joined at ahinge), and one or more lumens in various locations. Further detailsregarding certain of these aspects for particular examples are describedfurther below. A person of skill in the art, upon reading the abovedisclosure and following examples, will be able to produce furtherdiffering examples.

Example 1

FIGS. 8A-8B depict a first example of a weatherseal W1 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W1 includes a U-shapedprofile curve PC1 and five lumens 1-5. Lumen 3 is disposed at the hingeH1, thus, the hinge H1 is a hollow type. The large curved lumen 3adjacent to the hinge H1 reduces the CLD while the two pairs of lumens1-2 (in an upper leaf U1) and 4-5 (in a lower leaf L1) further reducethe CLD while providing free flowing drainage, thus preventingaccumulation of water. The single rib R1 within each leaf U1, L1 acts asa reinforcing structure to maintain product shape as well as a cushionto absorb impact.

Example 2

FIGS. 9A-9B depict a second example of a weatherseal W2 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W2 includes a U-shapedprofile curve PC2 and three lumens 1-3. The weatherseal W2 is a similarhinge configuration to EXAMPLE 1, but also includes a single lumen 1, 3in each leaf U2, L2. These lumens 1, 3, provide a lower CLD when theweatherseal W2 is overcompressed, as when a door is mounted out-of-plumbor hardware is mounted so as to compress the weatherseal W2 to less thana designed gap (e.g., ⅜″). While in the closed position in a door gap,the hinge H2 deforms such that the outer layer of foam remains undertension and the inner layer remains under compression, as describedabove for hollow hinges. As the weatherseal W2 is compressed, the lumen2 is collapsed and the forces are distributed over a wide area, creatingan acceptable balance between low CLD and good recovery.

Example 3

FIGS. 10A-10B depict a third example of a weatherseal W3 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W3 includes a U-shapedprofile curve PC3 and four lumens 1-4. Rib R3 in the upper leaf U3 isdisposed at an angle to the jamb J3 and door D3, which causes tensionand compression forces, as described above, during closing operationsand overcompression. Rib R3′, on the other hand, is substantiallyorthogonal to the jamb J3 and door D3, providing impact resistanceduring overcompression. Hinge H3 is solid, and the lumens 2, 3 disposedproximate thereto deform significantly during bending. Due to the angledrib R3, this causes significant deformation of lumen 1. The orthongalrib R3′ limits significant deformation of the lumen 4, untilovercompression occurs.

Example 4

FIGS. 11A-11B depict a fourth example of a weatherseal W4 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W4 includes a V-shapedprofile curve PC4 and three lumens 1-3. The weatherseal W4 includes anarrow, solid hinge H4, a triangular lower leaf L4, and an outerflexible skin S4 that mounts flush to the jamb J4. This allows theflexible skin S4 to seal tight against the jamb J4 thereby creating apositive seal. The solid hinge H4 provides a solid volume of foam tocompress. This distributes the deformation forces above and below thehinge H4, providing a larger volume of foam compression whilemaintaining an acceptable balance between CLD and recovery. Thetriangular lumen 3 is nested within the lower leaf L4. As such, itssides are substantially parallel with, and disposed a consistentdistance d from the outer surface of the lower leaf L4. Thus, the lumen3 deforms in a unique manner, folding and buckling B as the weathersealW4 is compressed into the compressed state of FIG. 11B. This buckling Benhances the low CLD. Additionally, the configuration of the lower leafL4 also results in the presence of an overcompression volume V4, intowhich the upper leaf U4 may be moved, should overcompression occur.

Example 5

FIGS. 12A-12B depict a fifth example of a weatherseal W5 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W5 includes a profilecurve PC5 defined by a central linear neck section N5 that is bounded bytwo hinges H5, H5′. Three lumens 1-3 are present. The two hinges H5, H5′provide secondary relief when the door D5 is closed. On the hinge sideof the door D5, the upper hinge H5 bends, after which the lower hingeH5′ becomes the active hinge point. On the lock side of the door D5, theupper hinge H5 becomes active as the door D5 closes in a straightdownward fashion. An additional feature is a thickened, heavilyreinforced outer skin S5 on the lower and side surfaces of the lowerleaf L5. These surfaces S5 remain exposed to ambient conditions when thedoor D5 is closed and exposed to structural abuse when the door D5 isopen, during such times as when furniture or other large objects arebeing moved through the doorway. The thicker skin surface S5 acts as a“bumper” while it does not significantly detract from the desired lowCLD. Additionally, the configuration of the lower leaf L5 also resultsin the presence of an overcompression volume V5, into which the upperleaf U5 may be moved, should overcompression occur.

Example 6

FIGS. 13A-13B depict a sixth example of a weatherseal W6 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W6 includes a U-shapedprofile curve PC6 and three lumens 1-3. The weatherseal W6 includes asmall crescent shaped lumen 2 at the hinge H6 designed to minimize theCLD, accompanied by a relatively stiff upper leaf U6 that is designed tofold in a uniform manner, driving the majority of the folding anddeformation into the lower leaf L6 of the weatherseal W6. The upper leafU6 is fairly stiff because the lumen 1 is formed in only a small portionthereof. As such, the hinge H6 flexes more precisely, protecting andsealing the full gap from the frame F6 to the door D6. Additionally, theconfiguration of the lower leaf L6 also results in the presence of anovercompression volume V6, into which the upper leaf U6 may be moved,should overcompression occur.

Example 7

FIGS. 14A-14B depict a seventh example of a weatherseal W7 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W7 includes a V-shapedprofile curve PC7 and two lumens 1-2. The weatherseal W7 relies upon avery narrow hinge H7 located at a distance D7 approximately 0.230″ abovethe jamb J7. As such, the hinge H7 is located at about 40% of theprofile height P7. The weatherseal W7 includes a triangular lower leafL7 having a nested triangular lumen 2 that accommodates the compressiondeformation caused by door DP7 closing. The upper lumen 1 providesrelief from overcompression or in the event that the tip of the upperleaf U7 gets caught between the door DP7 and the door frame F7. Anovercompression volume V7 is also present.

Example 8

FIGS. 14A-14B depict a eighth example of a weatherseal W8 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W8 is of the samedesign with many of the same features as weatherseal W7. As such,components shared with that of weatherseal W7 are not described further.Weatherseal W8, however, includes a sealing feature enhancement of twosealing fins F8, F8′. Sealing fin F8 is disposed at the tip of the upperleaf U8 and reduces or eliminates the penetration of air and water.Sealing fin F8′ is disposed at the point of entrance to the saw kerf K8that is designed and constructed as a receiving channel for mounting theweatherseal W8. This sealing fin F8′ can limit infiltration of waterinto the kerf K8.

Example 9

FIGS. 16A-16B depict a ninth example of a weatherseal W9 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W9 includes a U-shapedprofile curve PC9 and three lumens 1-3. The upper leaf U9 is in the formof an inward-facing bulbous lobe that extends into the overcompressionvolume V9 so as to effectively seal the space between the door D9 andthe frame F9 in the closed position. It also provides an effectivecushion in the event of over compression or door slamming. The hinge H9is relatively solid and the lower leaf L9 is triangular with a nestedtriangule lumen 3.

Example 10

FIGS. 17A-17B depict a tenth example of a weatherseal W10 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in uncompressed andcompressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W10 includes anS-shaped profile curve PC10, two lumens 1-2, and a solid hinge H10. Theupper leaf U10 is in the form of an outwardly-facing bulb and includes alumen 1 that allows the tip of the upper leaf U10 to be compressedbetween the door D10 and the frame F10. This creates a superior seal toprevent penetration of air and water through the door gap. Thetriangular lower leaf L10 allows ease of compression to less than 1pound per foot at the required gap (e.g., ⅜″ nominal).

Example 11

FIGS. 18A-18B depict a eleventh example of a weatherseal W11incorporating certain of the technologies described herein, inuncompressed and compressed states, respectively. The weatherseal W11includes a U-shaped profile curve PC11, three lumens 1-3, and a hollowhinge H11. In order to reduce the CLD to 0.6 pounds per foot or lessdeflected to a ⅜″ gap, the weatherseal W11 features an uncoated portionUC11 at an interior curve of the weatherseal W11. This uncoated portionUC11 allows for ease of foam compression without the resistance of theflexible skin layer 511. In combination with the lumen 2 at the hingeH11, the profile is allowed to compress in two planes: inward tocollapse the hollow and vertically above the jamb J11. This actionreduces CLD and aids recovery.

Example 12

FIG. 19 depicts a twelfth example of a weatherseal W12 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in an uncompressed state.The weatherseal W12 includes a profile curve PC12 defined by a centrallinear neck section N12 that is bounded by two hinges H12, H12′. Twolumens 1-2 are present. The two hinges H12, H12′ provide secondaryrelief when the door is closed. On the hinge side of the door, the upperhinge H12 bends, after which the lower hinge H12′ becomes the activehinge point. On the lock side of the door, the upper hinge H12 becomesactive as the door D12 closes in a straight downward fashion. Theweatherseal W12 will provide extra protection for non-standardinstallations (e.g., a larger 0.750″ thick version of the seal) whilemaintaining the same low CLD at less than 1 pound at ⅜″ closed gap. Anovercompression volume V12 is also present.

Example 13

FIG. 20 depicts a thirteenth example of a weatherseal W13 incorporatingcertain of the technologies described herein, in an uncompressed state.The weatherseal W13 includes a profile curve PC13 defined a centrallinear neck section N13 that is bounded by two hinges H13, H13′. Twolumens 1-2 are present. The two hinges H13, H13′ provide secondaryrelief when the door is closed. On the hinge side of the door, the upperhinge H13 bends, after which the lower hinge H13′ becomes the activehinge point. On the lock side of the door, the upper hinge H13 becomesactive as the door closes in a straight downward fashion. The large sizeof lumen 1 forms a highly conformable upper leaf U13. As the weathersealW13 is compressed, the upper leaf U13 rotates into the closed position,reducing the need for the upper leaf U13 tip to drag across the surfaceof the door D13 on the lock side of the door. An overcompression volumeV13 is also present.

Select Test Data

As described above, it is desirable that the TPE foam weathersealsdescribed herein display performance similar to urethane foamweatherseals. Table 1 depicts results of Door Closing Force tests andcompares a number of different products. Q-lon is a urethane weathersealmanufactured by Schlegel of Rochester, N.Y. FOAM-TITE™ is a foam TPEweatherseal manufactured by Amesbury Group, Inc., of Amesbury, Mass.These two products were tested and the performance was compared to afoamed TPE weatherseal consistent with EXAMPLE 7, above. As can be seen,the EXAMPLE 7 product has a lower closing force than the Q-lon productand significantly lower closing force than the Foam-Tite product, whichis manufactured from a like TPE material. As such, the EXAMPLE 7 productdisplays very desirable performance properties.

TABLE 1 Door Closing Force Test Comparison Door Closing Force DoorCompared Lab Test Test Nominal Closing to OEM Lbs/Ft Class SpecimenHeight Force Seal CLD Comment Q-Lon QEBD-650 0.650 13.2 100% 1.23 Newlyinstalled seals Q-Lon QEBD-650 0.650 9.5 72% 0.97 24 hours afterinstallation TPE Ex. 7 0.650 11.3 86% 1.08 Newly installed seals TPE Ex.7 0.650 8.0 61% 0.92 24 hours after installation Foam- 12083 0.625 26.8204% 3.40 Standard .625 Tite ™ production run Foam- 12001 0.650 34.3261% 4.70 Standard .650 Tite ™ production run

Table 2 depicts various performance data for a foamed TPE weathersealconsistent with EXAMPLE 7 above, as compared to two Q-lon products. Thedata includes weatherseal reach, force to close, air leakage, and waterpenetration, before and after 250,000 cycles. The data indicates thatthe EXAMPLE 7 product displays desirable force to close and reach, evenafter the test cycles are performed. The weatherseal also passes boththe air leakage and water penetration tests, consistent with the Q-lonproducts.

TABLE 2 Performance Data Test Comparison SINGLE OUTSWING DOOR (beforeand after 250k door cycles) Weatherseal Test Units U71 Q-Lon EX. 7Weatherseal inch before 0.636 +/− 0.012 0.654 +/− 0.018 reach after0.621 +/− 0.011 0.607 +/− 0.023 Force to lbs before 2.74 +/− 0.11 2.42+/− 0.11 Latch after 2.33 +/− 0.09 2.41 +/− 0.13 ASTM E283 scfm/ft2before Pass Pass Air Leakage after Pass Pass ASTM E547 design beforePass Pass Cyclic pressure, after Pass Pass water psf penetration

Table 3 depicts door seal CLD test data for Q-lon products, a FOAM-TITE™product, and a number of examples of the above described low-CLD foamTPE products (specifically, EXAMPLES 4, 5, 7, and 10). CLD is measuredfor a newly-manufactured product. CLD is measured by compressing a 1″sample of the tested weatherstrip having a nominal height of 0.650″. Theweatherstrip is compressed at a compression rate of 1″/minute untilcompression of ⅜″ is reached. The compression is performed with aCHATTILON force gauge. Under such test conditions, a CLD of less thanabout 1.25 lb/ft of weatherstrip would be desirable. As can be seen, thetested samples consistent with EXAMPLES 4, 5, 7, and 10 display lowerCLDs than the comparably sized Q-lon products. The FOAM-TITE™weatherstrip without lumens displays a very high CLD.

TABLE 3 Door Seal CLD Test Comparison Compression Sample Force lb/ftQEBD 650 U71 Q-Lon 1.33 Foam-Tite ™ 12083 2.79 EXAMPLE 4 1.03 EXAMPLE 51.05 EXAMPLE 7 1.12 EXAMPLE 10 1.08

While there have been described herein what are to be consideredexemplary and preferred embodiments of the present technology, othermodifications of the technology will become apparent to those skilled inthe art from the teachings herein. The particular methods of manufactureand geometries disclosed herein are exemplary in nature and are not tobe considered limiting. It is therefore desired to be secured in theappended claims all such modifications as fall within the spirit andscope of the technology. Accordingly, what is desired to be secured byLetters Patent is the technology as defined and differentiated in thefollowing claims, and all equivalents.

What is claimed is: 1-20. (canceled)
 21. A weatherseal comprising: astiffener configured to be inserted into a kerf of a doorframe; and afoam profile comprising: a first profile portion connected to thestiffener; a second profile portion comprising a tip; and an elongatesection extending between the first profile portion and the secondprofile portion, wherein a first hinge is formed between the firstprofile portion and the elongate section and an opposite second hinge isformed between the second profile portion and the elongate section, andwherein the first hinge and the second hinge each define a portion ofthe foam profile that bends when the tip of the second profile portionis acted upon by an external force.
 22. The weatherseal of claim 21,wherein when the foam profile is in an uncompressed position, the secondprofile portion is disposed at an acute angle to the first profileportion.
 23. The weatherseal of claim 21, wherein upon application ofthe external force to the tip of the second profile portion, the secondhinge bends prior to the first hinge.
 24. The weatherseal of claim 21,wherein the stiffener comprises a first leg and a second leg, whereinthe first leg is connected to the first profile portion.
 25. Theweatherseal of claim 24, wherein the elongate section defines alongitudinal axis, and wherein the longitudinal axis is substantiallyorthogonal to the first leg of the stiffener.
 26. The weatherseal ofclaim 24, wherein the first profile portion is connected to the firstleg along substantially all of a width of the first leg.
 27. Theweatherseal of claim 21, wherein the foam profile comprises an outersurface, and wherein the weatherseal further comprises a resin coatingat least a portion of the outer surface.
 28. The weatherseal of claim27, wherein the resin coating on the first profile portion isreinforced.
 29. The weatherseal of claim 21, wherein the first profileportion has a cross-sectional shape different than a cross-sectionalshape of the second profile portion.
 30. The weatherseal of claim 21,wherein at least one of the first profile portion and the second profileportion defines a lumen.
 31. The weatherseal of claim 21, wherein thefirst profile portion defines a first lumen, and wherein the secondprofile portion defines at least one second lumen.
 32. The weathersealof claim 21, wherein the foam profile comprises a closed-cell foam. 33.The weatherseal of claim 32, wherein the closed-cell foam isthermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
 34. The weatherseal of claim 32, whereinthe closed-cell foam is ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM).
 35. Theweatherseal of claim 21, wherein the foam profile comprises acompression load deflection of less than about 1.25 pounds per foot,when compressed to a thickness of about ⅜ inch at a rate of about 1inch/minute.
 36. The weatherseal of claim 21, wherein the stiffener issubstantially rigid.
 37. The weatherseal of claim 21, wherein when thefoam profile is in a compressed position, an overcompression volume isdefined between the first profile portion and the second profileportion.
 38. The weatherseal of claim 37, wherein when the foam profileis in an overcompressed position, the second profile portion is disposedat least partially within the overcompression volume.
 39. Theweatherseal of claim 21, wherein a lumen is defined within the elongatesection.
 40. The weatherseal of claim 21, wherein the weatherseal isconfigured to resist water penetration.